The Most Instagrammed Breakfast Spots In S.F.

Michele BirdSep 1, 2015 5:00 PM

If there's one meal you can't afford to miss while you're in San Francisco, it has got to be breakfast. Not only is it the most important meal of the day, the City by the Bay has quite an eclectic (and delicious) array of restaurants to explore.

September officially marks National Breakfast Month, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by getting a hearty meal at any of these local establishments. Though it’s not uncommon to encounter long waits, as well as lines out the door, you can trust any S.F.-er who says it will be more than worth it to get a meal that's complete with all the works.

From wacky doughnut sandwiches to the quintessential mimosa, morning meals in S.F. have never looked so good. Take a look at 10 breakfast spots that will easily steal the heart of your taste buds. Oh, yeah, don’t forget an empty stomach — you’re going to need it.

Photo: Courtesy of @julienmauve.
Dottie's True Blue CafeDespite being notorious for hourlong waits, Dottie’s True Blue Cafe is a spot smoldering with local charm. With menu selections featuring everything from traditional omelets to grilled chili-cheddar corn bread, there’s a little something for every taste. Don’t forget to try out a customer favorite — a stack of Dottie’s Famous Pancakes served with pure maple syrup. Can you really go wrong there?

Photo: Courtesy of @ thisthuy___.
Dynamo Donut + CoffeeDynamo Donut + Coffee is home to a variety of treats that will leave your sweet tooth more than satisfied. The maple-glazed bacon apple doughnut alone is worth seeking out the location that's closest to you.

Photo: Courtesy of @culturallyfit.
farm:tableDon’t let the tiny space and simple menu fool you, because farm:table has anything but a small following. Fresh ingredients — topping items such as the daily toast or the egg croissant — have grown quite the customer fan base. (Pro tip: If you’re not one for tight spaces, it might be best to get your breakfast goodies on the go!)

Photo: Courtesy of @iannchang.
Kitchen StoryIf you're looking for an exceptional slice of bacon, look no further than Kitchen Story. Millionaire's Bacon is easily the centerpiece of any meal, but the appetizing choices don't stop there, with a menu featuring poached eggs, Meyer Lemon French toast, and more. Did we forget to mention there are bottomless mimosas? Because that's on the menu, too.

Photo: Courtesy of @diorcchoi.
Mama's on Washington SquareWhether you're an S.F. resident or first-time visitor to North Beach, Mama's on Washington Square is hard to miss — especially since the line is almost always out the door. This family-owned restaurant has been a staple on the S.F. breakfast scene for more than 50 years. Trust us, the wait will seem like nothing once you try the food.

Photo: Courtesy of @klynnbaynedesigns.
Mr. Holmes BakehouseWhere New York City has the cronut, S.F. has its own pastry fusion treat sold every morning until the bakery is sold out. That’s right, you've stumbled upon Mr. Holmes Bakehouse, otherwise known as the home of the "cruffin." The croissant-and-muffin duo features daily changing flavors such as classic chocolate chip cookie to zesty lemon meringue. Let’s just say we’d be happy to try them all, along with all the other treats this Lower Nob Hill spot has to offer.

Photo: Courtesy of @mrlessy.
StrawThree words: doughnut breakfast sandwiches. It’s more of a reality than a dream at Straw. The Hayes Valley restaurant features carnival fare that is sure to get your mouth watering. If that doughnut bun isn’t enough for you, there’s always a fried chicken 'n' waffle Monte Cristo to tempt your taste buds.

Photo: Courtesy of @thaliwa.
Sweet MapleAs it turns out, Kitchen Story isn’t the only S.F. restaurant that carries Millionaire’s Bacon. The folks behind Sweet Maple are also the same ones that brought the Castro location to life. Whether you’re in the mood for a fluffy Marguerite omelet, the potato medley, or deep-fried French toast, we’re sure your stomach will be in for a treat.

Photo: Courtesy of @xelasuave.
Tartine Bakery & CaféThis is the kind of bakery your sweet tooth is craving. Morning buns, assorted cream tarts, and brioche bread pudding are just a few delights guests patiently line up for. Just take a look at these pastries — it’s like a dream come true.

Photo: Courtesy of @noelleacostafit.
The MillIf there’s one thing The Mill is insanely good at, it’s toast that was meant to go on your Instagram feed. With options varying seasonally, and various toppings such as house-made “Nutella,” you can guarantee a new dining experience every time you visit this chic Alamo Square eatery. Those who aren’t fans of the work-of-art toasts could also opt for cookies, house-made granola, pastries, and more. Oh, the options!